The House of Representatives on Thursday advanced a bill seeking to establish an Independent Authority for the registration, regulation, and funding of political parties in Nigeria. The bill, which passed its second reading, is co-sponsored by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas and Marcus Onobun, a lawmaker representing Edo State.
The proposed legislation aims to transfer the responsibilities of political party registration and regulation from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to a newly created independent body.
Speaking during the debate on the bill, Onobun emphasized the need for a separate authority to oversee political parties, arguing that INEC should not simultaneously regulate political parties and conduct elections.
“INEC should not regulate political parties while also conducting elections. A separate authority will ensure compliance with regulations and promote transparency in the political process,” Onobun stated.
The bill seeks to address concerns about the impartiality and efficiency of INEC, which currently handles both electoral management and political party oversight. Proponents of the legislation believe that establishing an independent body will enhance the credibility of Nigeria’s electoral system and strengthen democratic institutions.
If passed into law, the new authority would be tasked with registering political parties, monitoring their activities, and ensuring compliance with funding and operational guidelines. The move is seen as a step toward reducing conflicts of interest and improving the overall integrity of Nigeria’s political landscape.
The bill has sparked debates among lawmakers, with some expressing support for the initiative while others raised concerns about the potential challenges of creating and funding a new regulatory body.
As the bill progresses through the legislative process, stakeholders are expected to engage in further discussions to refine its provisions and address any potential issues. The proposal reflects ongoing efforts to reform Nigeria’s electoral system and promote good governance.
